Creamy Cilantro Pesto

Submitted by Culinary Connoisseur

"Creamy cilantro pesto is great as a topping for chicken, Use it as a dip at your party, pesto pizza or you can use it as it was intended...on pasta or gnocchi. Very yummy and a great way for kids to get in veggies and dairy! it makes your kitchen smell so good,....it reminded me of spring. I hope you enjoy! ***This makes about 3 cups of pesto** **Can also be stored for up to 5 days in refrigerator**"

 

• Ready In: 15mins
• Ingredients: 11
• Yields: 3 cups
• Serves: 4-6

ingredients

• 1 bunch cilantro (the large stems cut off near the bottom of the bunch)
• 1⁄2 cup walnuts (chopped)
• 3 -4 large garlic cloves (whole)
• 1⁄4 cup lemon juice
• 1 bunch green onion (green parts only)
• 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup broccoli (about 1 crown,stems removed)
• 2 tablespoons basil (dried)
• 1⁄2 cup parmesan cheese (ok to use bottled kind for spaghetti)
• 1⁄2 cup vegetable oil (can use olive if you want)
• 3 tablespoons laughing cow swiss cheese (approximately 3 wedges, individually wrapped soft spread)

directions

1. Put cilantro, walnuts, garlic, lemon juice, green onions, and salt in the blender.
2. Blend until formed into a smooth paste.
3. Add Broccoli, Oil and basil, Blend until smooth.
4. Last add Parmesan Cheese and the Swiss cheese. **If at this point the mixture is too thick add more oil and lemon juice a little at a time -- remember a little goes a long way.
5. Pulse on high until it has turned into a creamy consistency.